The Silent Child
The Silent Child

Movie spotlight

The Silent Child

2017
Movie
20 min
English

A deaf 4-year-old girl named Libby lives in a world of silence until a caring social worker teaches her to use sign language to communicate.

Insights

IMDb7.6/10
Director: Chris OvertonGenres: Drama, Short

Plot Summary

A social worker forms a special bond with a deaf child who has been largely neglected. The child, Joanne, struggles to communicate until her new social worker, Sue, introduces her to sign language. This new form of expression opens up a world for Joanne, allowing her to share her thoughts and feelings for the first time.

Critical Reception

The Silent Child garnered significant critical acclaim, particularly for its poignant storytelling and powerful performances. It resonated with audiences for its sensitive portrayal of a child's isolation and the transformative power of communication. The film's success culminated in an Academy Award win, highlighting its impact.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its emotionally resonant narrative.

  • Commended for its sensitive and impactful depiction of a deaf child's experience.

  • Recognized for its powerful performances, especially from the young lead.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'The Silent Child' is largely positive, with viewers frequently highlighting the film's touching story and effective communication of its themes. Many found the narrative deeply moving and the performances compelling, leading to a strong appreciation for the film's message.

Awards & Accolades

Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film

Fun Fact

The film's writer, Joanne Forbes, based the story on her own experiences as a social worker and her interactions with deaf children.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

3 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I know it's not exactly the same thing, but I've recently been suffering from one of those head colds that goes for your ears! It's meant that for the last few days I've been able to hear next to nothing. What that has meant is I've noticed...

Aliakbar Avani

Aliakbar Avani

**A perspective to the Silent Child (2017)** **Introduction:** The short film The Silent Child (2017), 20m, a brilliant low-budget film ($10k) made by Chris Overton, with a pleasant play and a fantastic multi-layered screenplay of his wi...

Aliakbar Avani

Aliakbar Avani

**A perspective to the Silent Child (2017)** **Introduction:** The short film The Silent Child (2017), 20m, a brilliant low-budget film ($10k) made by Chris Overton, with a pleasant play and a fantastic multi-layered screenplay of his wi...